Cangzhou Mighty Lions pair sent off after scrapping like kittens in Chinese Super League qualifier
- Teammates André Senghor and Liao Chengjian handed red cards after minor tussle during Wednesday’s match against Shanghai Shenhua
- Lions said the pressure of relegation got the better of both players and severe penalties and a public apology will be issued
On-field scuffles are nothing new in football, but when it is between teammates you know something is not quite right.
That is exactly what happened on Wednesday night as tensions boiled over between Cangzhou Mighty Lions teammates André Senghor and Liao Chengjian after a 1-1 clash against Shanghai Shenhua in the qualifying rounds of the Chinese Super League.
Towards the end of the match, the pair were seen arguing, but things escalated into a bit of pushing and shoving. A video circulating on social media showed Senegalese striker Senghor throw the first punch, with Liao responding. Both players were sent off.
A statement issued by the club put the exchange down to a “misunderstanding” and pressure over relegation from the league.
“The two players had a dispute over the defensive position, because the language barrier caused a misunderstanding,” the club said. “Faced with the pressure of relegation, the two players lost control emotionally.
“Severe penalties will be imposed on the players involved and an apology will be made to the public.”
Elsewhere on Wednesday, Wuhan came from behind to crush bottom club Qingdao 5-2, extending a losing streak of 11 games.
